Your Chrysler’s battery provides the power to start the engine, but it will slowly wear out. As your Chrysler dealer, we’d like to give you some of the signs that we need to install a new car battery for you.
Starting Problems
One of the most common signs of a dead battery is difficulty starting your engine. The battery needs to send a strong electrical charge to the solenoid in the starter motor to crank the engine. This charge uses a large part of a battery’s stored electricity. If a battery is weakening, it may not have enough power to supply the full charge, and you’ll hear the click-click of a starter trying to engage.
A starting problem could be caused by other problems in the electrical charging system. A worn alternator, for example, can lead to a dead battery. The alternator should begin recharging your battery once your engine is running. If the alternator is worn, it won’t fully recharge the battery. This inevitably leads to a dead battery. Our technicians will examine your battery to find and fix the problem.
Loose Connection
Your battery could be in good condition, but it might not be receiving the power it needs. As we saw above, a weak alternator might not supply enough power. The issue could also be damaged or loose connections. The battery is connected to the electrical system by two battery cables, one positive and the other negative.
These cables must be securely connected to the battery terminals. Over time, the subtle movements in your engine as you drive can loosen the battery cables. This creates a gap between the terminal and the electrical system. Electricity can’t flow through a gap, and the battery won’t receive the electricity it needs. This will cause the battery to slowly die. We’ll examine the cables and connections and tighten or repair them.
Dim Lights
Another common sign of a weak battery is dim headlights, cabin lights, and dash lights. When your engine isn’t running, it’s the battery’s job to power these systems. A weakening battery will only be able to supply enough power for the lights to illuminate. You can test for a possible battery problem by taking note of the luminescence of the lights, and then switching on your engine.
Once your engine is running, compare the brightness of the lights. When your engine is running, the alternator powers your lights and other electrical systems. If your lights are brighter, your battery is failing. We’ll test your battery and replace it if necessary.
If you suspect your battery is failing, come and see us at Northern Prairie Auto Sales.
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